〜ば If (conditional)
Core meaning - If (conditional)
Form - + であれば; i → kereba; u → eba
Usage - Focus on the highlighted segment in each example; surrounding words can change while the pattern function stays the same.
Use this pattern for its grammatical function, not as a literal word-by-word translation.
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
ば is more hypothetical than たら
- 時間があれば行く (If I have time [hypothetically])
For advice: ばいい
- 先生に聞けばいい (You should ask the teacher)
Can't use ば for past events
- ❌ 昨日行けば... (Use たら instead)
If you go quickly, you will make it.
If it is cheap, I will buy it.
If you practice, you will improve.
If the weather is good, you can see the mountain.
Find real examples
Discover this pattern in manga, dramas & more
Save for spaced repetition
Add sentences to your study deck
Practice 〜ば and other grammar patterns with manga, dramas, and more.
Start learning free